By Tammy Kilby
For the Times
SOUTH WAYNE — The South Wayne Fire Department added to the cheer with another successful fish boil on Saturday, August 24. The homemade delicacy that the South Wayne community worked hard to create was successfully prepared, just like in years past. Those who didn’t get a chance to show their support can still do so, as the South Wayne Fire Department volunteers are still asking for donations.
Steve Lehman, fire chief of the South Wayne Fire Department, said equipping a firefighter costs thousands of dollars.
“The equipment alone costs $3,400,” Lehman said. “When you add that to the helmet, which costs $375, the boots, which cost $350, and the other equipment, it’s a lot of money, and that’s just for one firefighter.”
With the additional cost of gloves and other necessary accessories, each firefighter costs just under $5,000. Lehman said he just completed the order for equipment for five firefighters. In 10 years, the firefighting equipment he ordered will expire. That means the equipment will need to be renewed and new equipment will need to be ordered again. Each year, the age/date of each piece of equipment a firefighter owns is reviewed by the department, with older and expiring equipment being replaced first.
South Wayne volunteer firefighters train together in the field and in the classroom, allowing them to continually update their skills to better serve their community. They work day and night to prevent property damage and save lives. Most firefighters are also first responders, which requires regular training to better prepare for the next emergency.
“Upgrading the equipment is also a big cost,” Lehman said. “We have applied for a grant to upgrade the air packs, air bottles and air compressor. The total cost is $180,000.”
Lehman had not been notified as of press time whether the grant had been accepted. As equipment ages, so does the risk of equipment failure. Lehman cares about his firefighting family and works diligently to keep an eye on outdated equipment and potential dangers to team members.
Lehman has served as chief of the South Wayne Fire Department for the past four years. He began volunteering with the fire department in 1990.
“There is always a need within the department,” he said. “Donations are welcome year-round.”
The chief said he was glad for the support of the community, which came out for the fish dinner on Saturday. The burning flames captivated the crowd as they waited for the next batch of fresh fish. Flame temperatures start at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. South Wayne Fire Department volunteers worked together to keep the situation under control.
Anyone who has not yet collected their prize from the raffle is requested to do so now.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter is welcome to contact Lehman. He said he is always looking for new members to join the fire department and first responder family, as everyone brings their own skills and abilities. Lehman said he already has a great group, but is excited for the chance to add more members to the roster.
Fundraising continues as firefighters continue to train, deploy their equipment and prepare for the next emergency.
Cash donations by post:
South Wayne Fire Department
107 E. Center Street
South Wayne, WI 53587
